Young dad hit and killed by lorry on way to work just days before his birthday

A dad who was hit by a lorry on his way to work was just ‘days shy of his 26th birthday’.

Despite emergency services being called at around 7.35am on Tuesday, October 29 to reports of an accident involving a HVG and a cyclist, Brandon Valentine died at the scene.

Following the news of 25-year-old Brandon’s death, his family are being supported by specialist officers.

A 36-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing death by careless/inconsiderate driving. He has been released under investigation.

In a public statement on his heartbroken partner Poppy Mitchell said Brandon was about to turn 26 when he died. She said: "Your memory will live on forever in your boy. Taken far too soon at such a young age. Days shy of your 26th birthday. Why you Bran? Why you? I hope you can hear me talking to you telling you it’s okay it wasn’t your fault and don’t worry about Carter please Bran I wish we could swap places.

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"I’ll forever feel your gentle kisses and soft hands I had that side to you that no one would see. You were my Brandon and I was your Poppy from the very first time we spoke, even though I was too shy to meet you for years and years.

"We finally met and you wouldn’t give up on us and I’m so glad for that. No one is as special as you and I will not forget the love you poured into everything you found important."

A GoFundMe page has been set up to help the young dad's family, who was said to have been travelling to work at the time of the incident. In a tribute on the fundraising page, loved ones described Brandon as a "family man" whose family was "his whole life".

It added: "Everyone is devastated and heartbroken by this major loss. I've set up this page to ease the costs for the family and to give Brandon the send off he deserves. His family was his whole life. Let’s help his family and make him proud."

Paying tribute on social media, another person said: "Sleep tight Brandon Valentine, much love brother". Another added: "Some of the best memories with you in our teenage years Brandon Valentine. You’ll be forever missed."

Organisers of the Seacombe Bonfire and Works Display also said a bucket to raise money for Brandon's family will be at the event on November 5. said they are appealing for any witnesses, CCTV and dash camera footage which may assist the investigation.

Detective Sergeant Andy Roper, Lead Investigating Officer for the MATRIX Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “Our thoughts and condolences continue to be with Brandon’s family at this difficult time and our specialist officers are supporting them.

“We are continuing to investigate the collision and the events leading up to it. I urge anyone who witnessed or has information on this incident which will assist the investigation to please contact us.